Public Policy Agenda

Michigan Jewish Conference

Public Policy Agenda

"You must open your hand to the poor, elderly and disabled." (Deuternomy 15:8)

The Conference was established to serve the political and community relations needs of the statewide Jewish community. While the approximately 120,000 Jewish people residing in the state of Michigan are of a diverse nature, representing all social-economical backgrounds, there are certain philosophical beliefs deeply rooted in their religious and cultural background.

Jewish law places a high priority on one's obligation to his/her fellow man or woman. Helping others is a just and required act. The statewide Jewish community provides a vast array of services to the greater community. These services include the following:

	Supportive services for the elderly & disabled.
	Vocational training and career development.
	Job training and job placement.
	Immigration and citizenship services.
	Educational services.
	Financial assistance for those in need.

The Jewish community has always been committed to meeting its obligation to the community and believes that any individual needing assistance receive it. The Jewish community provides a safety net for those individuals who might not meet the eligibility criteria of other programs. The Jewish community welcomes and encourages additional partnerships with the state to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the delivery of services.

While there is tremendous diversity amongst the Jewish population, there are certain of public policy issues that are generally shared by the statewide Jewish community. These can be categorized into the following three general areas: (1) issues that effect the health and welfare of the community, (2) issues that interfere with or impede ones ability to practice Judaism and (3) issues that violate the first amendment separation of Church and State.